Today, On 23rd January, The Karnataka High Court temporarily stayed police action against BJP’s CT Ravi over an obscene remark made about a Minister. The Court plans to evaluate whether the Speaker is the only authority to address this matter, given that it occurred on the floor of the house, or if an external agency can also conduct an investigation.
Bengaluru: The Karnataka High Court instructed the State to refrain from taking any action regarding the First Information Report (FIR) filed last year against BJP MLC CT Ravi, who is accused of making an obscene remark about Women and Child Development Minister Laxmi Hebbalkar during a Legislative Council session.
Justice M. Nagaprasanna issued these interim directions while considering Ravi’s petition to quash the FIR.
The Court indicated it needs to assess whether the Speaker is the sole authority to address this issue, given its occurrence on the floor of the house, or if an external agency can also conduct an investigation.
This discussion arose after Senior Counsel C.V. Nagesh, representing Ravi, referenced the Supreme Court’s March 2024 ruling regarding legislative immunity in the Sita Soren vs. UoI case. Nagesh argued that the incident, taking place within the Legislative Council, should be protected by such immunity, preventing police involvement.
In contrast, Special Public Prosecutor B.A. Belliappa countered that not all criminal acts within the legislature automatically receive immunity, asserting the necessity for investigation into all criminal offenses.
Justice Nagaprasanna stated,
“The issue boils down to jurisdiction. Whether the Speaker can close the proceedings, or if an external agency can investigate, needs to be addressed,”
Also Read: Karnataka HC Rejects PIL Alleging Hate Speech by BJP Leaders & Right-Wing Activists
The next hearing scheduled for January 30.
Ravi had been arrested by Belgavi police on December 19 but was released the following day after the High Court questioned the necessity of his arrest and granted him interim bail.
CT Ravi is a member of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and serves as a Member of the Legislative Council (MLC) in Karnataka. He is known for his active involvement in state politics and has held various roles within the party. Ravi has been a prominent figure in legislative discussions and has faced controversies, including allegations related to remarks made in the Legislative Council.
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